Palecek Campaign Targets Braun Over Support from MAGA billionaire” Zuckerberg and Gambling Interests (Chicago, IL) – The campaign for Democratic state House candidate Demi Palecek escalated its criticism of opponent Adam Braun this week, alleging that his bid for Illinois’ 13th District seat is being buoyed by corporate PACs and wealthy donors, including what the campaign described as “MAGA billionaire” Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
In a press release, Palecek’s campaign claimed Braun has received significant backing from political committees connected to the online gambling company DraftKings and from Making Our Tomorrow, a super PAC the campaign said is funded by Meta Platforms Inc. and Zuckerberg. The release framed the spending as an effort by corporate and national political interests to influence the outcome of the Chicago-area legislative race.
Campaign finance disclosures cited in the statement show Braun benefiting from support tied to American Future PAC, which the Palecek campaign said has financial links to DraftKings, as well as Making Our Tomorrow. The campaign argued that the spending reflects an attempt by outside groups to shape the contest in favor of Braun, whom it characterized as aligned with corporate interests.
The release also pointed to Braun’s professional background, noting he registered as a lobbyist with Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP in January 2025. Lobbying records referenced by the Palecek campaign show the firm listed DraftKings and other sports betting companies among its clients.
Palecek contrasted those connections with her own campaign, saying she rejects corporate PAC contributions and instead relies on grassroots donors. In the statement, she cited her working-class upbringing and military service as shaping her approach to public office.
“This is everything wrong with our politics,” Palecek said, arguing that gambling corporations and what she described as a “MAGA billionaire” are attempting to sway the race because her campaign cannot be influenced by large donors.
The Palecek campaign also used the funding claims to criticize Braun’s lobbying work and policy positions, portraying the election as a choice between a corporate-backed candidate and one focused on working families and public investment.
Braun’s campaign did not immediately respond to the allegations.
The race for the 13th District seat is expected to draw attention as outside spending increases, underscoring the growing role of independent expenditures and political committees in Illinois legislative contests.
Palecek Campaign Targets Braun Over Support from MAGA billionaire” Zuckerberg and Gambling Interests
